Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1996

Question 1

What is the manual handling operations regulations 1996?

Answer 1

It is where individuals, who require care and support, need to be assisted safely to move and transfer from 1 place to another (wheelchair to bed).

it is a focal point for care providing organisations.

Injuries can easily happen if incorrect methods are used.

Question 2

What are the key points of MHOR 1996?

Answer 2

Avoid the need of manual handling as far as possible.

Asses the risk of injury from any manual handling that is unavoidable.

Take action to reduce the risk of injury as far as possible.

Employers must provide information, training and supervision about safe manual handling.

Question 3

What the impacts on care settings?

Answer 3

Training must be provided for anyone who needs to carry out manual handling as part of their job.

Any manual handling activities must be risk assessed.

Employees must not operate manual handling equipment that they have not been trained to use.

Reduced risk of injury.

Reduced need for staff to undertake manual handling (unless essential).

Lifts should be planned and practised before doing it for real.

Question 4

Guidance for safe lifting.

Answer 4

1. Stand with both feet apart.
2. Bend your knees.
3. Keep your back straight.
4. Learn slightly forward to get a grip on the item.
5. Lift it smoothly.

Question 5

What should manual handling training include?

Answer 5

Information about risk factor and how injuries can occur.

Techniques for carrying out manual handling safely.

How to use mechanical aids (hoist).

Practical work to allow the trainer to identify and put right anything the trainee is not doing safely.